Networked personal weather devices and related methods for providing weather information

ABSTRACT

The formation of dynamic, micro-climate groups consisting of passive and active weather collecting devices is provided. Such devices may collect weather information in real-time. The collected information may be distributed weather information and or forecasts to individuals in a particular geographical area or to other subscribers.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/202,734 filed Nov. 28, 2018 (“'734 Application”), which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/041,718 filed Jul.20, 2018 (the “'718 Application”). This application claims priority tothe '734 and '718 Applications and to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/535,203 filed Jul. 20, 2017 (the “'203 Application”). Thisapplication incorporates by reference the entireties of the '734, '718and '203 Applications as if their entire disclosures were set forth infull herein.

INTRODUCTION

While umbrellas have been around for centuries, little work has beendone to collect the data they are capable of collecting to computereal-time, local weather conditions and distribute this information in atimely manner. Even the best technology that exists today, such asNational Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radarinstallations, do not provide accurate information about the weatherthat is occurring at a particular geographical location. For example,these installations are fixed installations. Further, the radars thatthese installation use to determine weather conditions may be able toaccurately determine the weather conditions in areas that are locatedclose to a given installation, but are typically unable to accuratelydetermine the weather conditions in an area that may be remote from theinstallation (e.g., in an area that is between two installations, andremote from each). In addition, these installations may not be able toaccurately determine the weather conditions for an area that may not beremote, but, due to its topography does not allow signals from a radarto penetrate. Thus, whatever signals are returned to the radar may behighly inaccurate. Still further, it is known that radar images ofweather conditions sometimes indicate that there is precipitation (e.g.,rain) falling on a specific location but, in reality, the precipitationnever reaches the ground having been evaporated before it has a chanceto do so. Further, radar technology has a difficult time reliablydetecting some types of precipitation, such as mist or a misty rain.Still further, even when radar does accurately detect precipitation (orthe lack thereof), there is an inherent lag in the time between thedetection of the precipitation and other weather conditions(collectively, precipitation and other weather conditions will bereferred to hereafter as “weather conditions”) and the time that theinformation is presented in an understandable form to those who mostneed to know about such conditions. Said another way, by the time suchinformation is provided to people in the area of the weather condition(e.g., those who may be inside a house, building or other shelter, butare planning on going outside) or those planning on entering such anarea, the information may already be too old to be useful (e.g., theweather conditions may have changed).

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide improvements in the devices andrelated methods that provide weather information.

SUMMARY

The present invention provides for systems and related methods forforming dynamic, micro-climate groups. One such system may comprise anetwork server operable to form one or more groups comprising passiveand active weather collecting devices capable of collecting weatherinformation in real-time. The server may be further operable todistribute collected weather information or forecasts to individuals ina particular geographical area or to subscribers. Further, the exemplaryserver yet be further operable to complete weather-related computationsbased on the passively and actively collected weather information, inconjunction with stored historical information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary inventive network according to an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 2A depicts an exemplary device that is part of the network in FIG.1 according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B depicts a sectional view of an element of the exemplary devicein FIG. 2A according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2C depicts another sectional view of a different element of thedevice depicted in FIG. 2A according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2D depicts another view of the element depicted in FIG. 2Caccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2E depicts exemplary dimensions for an element of an inventivedevice according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2F depicts the underside of an exemplary device (e.g., an umbrella)according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 2G and H depict additional views of an exemplary device accordingto embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 2I, 2J and 2K depict an exemplary subsystem of an exemplary deviceaccording to an embodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 2L and 2M depict an inventive closure subsystem according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIGS. 2N through 2Q depict an exemplary locking subsystem in accordancewith embodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 3A to 3C depict exemplary images that may be displayed on anexemplary device according to embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTIVE EMBODIMENTS

Exemplary embodiments of methods and devices for providing weatherinformation, among other things, are described herein. Although specificexemplary embodiments are discussed herein, there is no intent to limitthe scope of the present invention to such embodiments. To the contrary,the exemplary embodiments discussed herein are for illustrativepurposes. Modified and alternative embodiments may be implementedwithout departing from the scope of the present invention. Said anotherway, the exemplary embodiments presented herein are only some of themany that fall within the scope of the present invention, it beingpractically impossible for the inventor to describe all the manypossible exemplary embodiments and variations that fall within the scopeof the present invention.

As used herein the phrase “passive” collection device or system means adevice or system that detects, measures and at least temporarily stores(collectively referred to as “collecting” or “collection”)weather-related information without the involvement of an individual. Incontrast, the phrase “active” collection device means a device or userdevice whose primary function is to receive (and store at leasttemporarily) weather-related information, that has already beenmeasured, from an individual. Thus, an active device is mainly a meansto temporarily store and then share weather-related information inputinto it by a user. It should be understood that a single specific devicemay sometimes have the ability to function as part of a passivecollection system and other times function as an active collectiondevice. One example of a passive collection device is an inventiveumbrella further described herein. One example of an active collectiondevice is a wireless smartphone. Yet further, on example of a devicethat may function as a part of a passive collection system and as anactive collection device is a smartphone that is communicatively pairedwith (i.e., connected to) an umbrella, as described in more detailherein.

It should be understood that while an umbrella is discussed herein asbeing an example of a passive collection device and a wireless device(e.g., smartphone) is discussed herein as being an example of an activecollection device or as being a part of a passive collection system whencommunicatively paired with an umbrella, these are just two examples ofdevices that may be used as a passive and/or active collection devicesfor collecting weather-related information.

It should be understood that when the description herein describes theuse of a microcontroller such a device may include one or more elements.For example, the microcontroller may comprise one or more electronicprocessors and memories. The processors may be operable to executestored, specialized instructions for completing features and functionsdescribed herein. Such instructions may be stored in an onboard memory,in separate memory, or in a specialized database for example. Suchinstructions represent processes, functions and features that have beenintegrated into memory as stored electronic signals.

It should also be understood that one or more exemplary embodiments maybe described as a process or method. Although a process/method may bedescribed as sequential, such a process/method may be performed inparallel, concurrently or simultaneously. In addition, the order of eachstep within a process/method may be re-arranged. A process/method may beterminated when completed, and may also include additional steps notincluded in a description of the process/method.

As used herein the word “user” is an individual that is operating, ormay operate, a passive or active device or system. Similarly, the phrase“user device” means a passive or active device being capable of beingused by a user. One example of a user device is a wireless smartphone.The phrases “user” and “user device” as used herein may be usedsynonymously unless the context of the usage, or common sense, dictatesotherwise.

As used herein, the term “and/or” includes all combinations of one ormore of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singular forms“a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural form, unless thecontext and/or common sense indicates otherwise. It should be furtherunderstood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising,”, “includes” and/or“including”, when used herein, specify the presence of stated features,systems, subsystems, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,systems, subsystems, steps, operations, elements, components, and/orcombinations thereof.

As used herein the phrase “operable to” means “functions to”.

As used herein, the designations “first”, and “second”, etc., are usedto distinguish one component (e.g., element type, element, application(APP), device, subsystem, section, etc.,) or part of a process fromanother and does not indicate an importance, priority or status. Infact, the component or parts of a process could be re-designated (i.e.,re-numbered) and it would not affect the operation of systems or methodsprovided by the present invention.

As used herein the phrases “connection”, “connected to”, or similarphrases means an indirect or direct physical connection between at leasttwo different parts of a system, device, subsystem or subassembly ormeans one part of a system, device, subsystem or subassembly is subsumedwithin (and thereby connected to) at least one other part of a system,device, subsystem or subassembly. When one component of a system,device, subsystem or subassembly is described or depicted as beingconnected to another component, other well-known elements used tofacilitate such a connection may not be described or depicted becausesuch elements are well known to those skilled in the art.

Yet further, when one component of a system, device, subsystem orsubassembly is described or depicted as being connected to anothercomponent using “a connection” (or single line in a figure) it should beunderstood that practically speaking such a connection (line) maycomprise (and many times will comprise) more than one physicalconnection or channel, may be omni-directional or bi-directional, may ormay not include separate data, formatting and signaling and may bewireless or wired.

Still further, when one user device is described as communicating, orexchanging signals, with another user device or with a network-baseddevice (e.g. server) such communications and exchanges may include a webbrowser that is a part of an interface, and/or one or more“applications” (referred to herein as an “APP” or “APPs”) that have beeninstalled into, or downloaded onto, the user device. An “APP” mayinclude “content” (e.g., text, audio and video files), signaling andconfiguration files. For the sake of convenience and not limitation, theterms “APP” or “application” are used herein to refer to anyapplication, but use of such a term also includes a reference to anyfile or data.

In one embodiment, an APP to be downloaded onto a user device may alsoreside or be stored on one or more hardware devices, such as a networkor central or APP server in whole and/or in part, the later indicatingthat the APP may be distributed among, and by, several devices(servers). An APP may be downloaded to a user device from an APP server(or servers) or have been otherwise provided and installed on such aserver. A given user device may have a need for one or more of the APPsinstalled on a server. Accordingly, each of the embodiments describedherein includes protocols, necessary hardware, software and firmwareresident on a user device for transmitting and receiving an APP, contentand/or content identification information relating to the APP from/to aserver and vice-versa. Depending on the content to be transmitted, anAPP may be installed directly on a user device or may be downloaded froma server by initiating a request to a server to receive a local copy ofthe APP. When a discussion herein describes the sending and reception ofdata (i.e., transmissions and receptions) from/to a user device to/fromanother user or network device, a web browser and/or APP may be used tocomplete such transmissions and receptions.

It should further be understood that some of the systems and devicesdescribed herein (e.g., network server, weather computing system) mayinclude the ability for a third party or a user to access all, or some,of the functionality of such a system and device described herein using,for example, an application programming interface (API). In general, anAPI is a set of subroutine definitions, protocols, and tools that somesystems and devices described herein provide to enable users and thirdparties to build connections to the systems and devices described hereinas well create their own software and applications. More particularly,some of the systems and devices described herein may provide APIs thatare suitable for a web-based system, operating system, database system,computer hardware, or software library. The API may include aspecification, including, but not limited to, routines, data structures,object classes, variables, or remote calls.

It should be noted that the systems, devices, subsystems andsubassemblies (and their components) illustrated in the figures may notbe drawn to scale, may not represent an actual shape or size and may notrepresent an actual system, device layout, subsystem, subassembly,manufacture's drawing or visual. Rather, the systems, devices,subsystems, subassemblies and components are drawn to simply helpexplain the features, functions and processes of exemplary embodimentsof the present invention described herein and covered by the claims setforth at the end of this description.

It should be understood that each of the physical embodiments of thesystems, devices, subsystems, subassemblies and related methodsdescribed herein, and their components/steps are configured with, oruse, the necessary electronics to enable each to process information(i.e., compute) much faster than humanly possible and to exchangeinformation with each other much faster than humanly possible. Each ofthe embodiments of the present invention cannot practically beimplemented in any amount of time that would be acceptable to oneskilled in the art using human beings as substitutes for the systems,devices, subsystems, subassemblies, and related methods describedherein. For example, many of the embodiments described herein involve anexchange of information via two electronic components or between a userdevice and a network device that are remotely located from one another,where in each case the information exchanged must be available forimmediate use for the computation of a message (e.g., related to weatherconditions) or responsive signal. Accordingly, the speeds at which theinformation is exchanged and then used to make a computation, and theamount of information exchanged and computed is many times faster andlarger than can be communicated and processed by the human mind in anyreasonable amount of time. Said another way, such information cannot beprocessed by the human mind or mechanical means (pen and paper) withinthe time periods demanded by users of the present invention and thoseskilled in the art of the present invention.

As used herein, the term “embodiment” refers to one example of thepresent invention.

Referring now to FIG. 1 there is depicted an inventive, weathercollection network 100 comprising one or more dynamic, micro-climatecollection groups (hereafter “group” or “groups”) G₁, . . . G_(n), where“n” indicates the last group. In accordance with embodiments of theinvention, each dynamic micro-climate collection group may comprise oneor more collection systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n or 20 a-n′, 30 a-n′ and one ormore active collection devices 31 a-n, 31 a-n′ (where “n” indicates thelast such device). In FIG. 1 there is depicted groups, G₁ to G_(n).Rather than repeat the description that follows for each group G₁ toG_(n), it should be understood that when a feature, function or processinvolves systems 20 a-n,30 a-n, substantially the same features,functions and processes may be completed by systems 20 a-n′,30 a-n′.Similarly, when a feature, function or process involves devices 31 a-n,substantially the same features, functions and processes may becompleted by devices 31 a-n′. Further, when the following discussiondescribes the formation of one or more dynamic, micro-climate collectiongroup it should be understood that systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and 31 a-nrepresent all of the systems and devices within network 100, includingsystems 20 a-n′, 30 a-n′, and 31 a-n′.

In one embodiment, each inventive system may comprise a single passivecollection device 20 a (e.g., an umbrella) communicatively paired with asingle device 30 a (e.g. a smartphone) that is capable of both passivelyand actively collecting weather-related information while each inventiveactive collection device 31 a-n may comprise a smartphone, personaldigital assistant (PDAs), wireless phone, laptop, tablet, or othermobile computing device.

In an embodiment, as indicated above, to form a collection system eachof the devices 20 a-n (e.g., umbrellas) may be communicatively “paired”with one or more of the devices 30 a-n (smartphones) using means andprocesses known in the art (e.g. an APP and Bluetooth transceivers).When so paired, the passively collected, weather-related informationfrom device 20 a (umbrella) may be transmitted to a correspondinglypaired device 30 a (smartphone). Thereafter, the device 30 a maysubsequently transmit the passively collected information from device 20a to server 40 and/or computing system 50. In addition, any activelycollected, weather-related information that is, for example, input by auser into device 30 a may also be transmitted to server 40 and/orcomputing system 50. In addition, any actively collected,weather-related information that is, for example, input by a user intodevice 31 a-n (e.g. smartphone) may also be transmitted to server 40and/or computing system 50. As a result the system 50 may receive bothpassively-collected, weather-related information and actively collected,weather-related information.

The server 40 may comprise a network or central hardware server 40 whichmay be connected to a database 41. It should be understood, that whileonly a single server and database are depicted that this is merelyexemplary. In alternative embodiments, the server 40 may comprise aplurality of servers and the database 41 may comprise a plurality ofdatabases, for example. More particularly, in an illustrative embodimentthe server 40 may comprise a web server operable to complete thefunctions, features and processes described herein as well asinfrastructure features, functions and processes (e.g., issuing usercredentials, user authentication, and data encryption).

The server 40 may be operable to exchange and/or store registration,authentication, data (including content) and signaling with devices 30a-30 n, 31 a-n within each group G₁ to G_(n) using known electronics,methods and techniques via communications channels 21 a-n (where “n” isthe last channel). That is to say, each of the devices 30 a-30 n, 31a-n, 40 and 41 include components known to those skilled in the art tocomplete the functions and processes for exchanging registration,authentication, data (including content) and signaling information withone another.

The database(s) 41 may be operable to store, for example, current andhistorical passively or actively collected, weather-related informationreceived by the connected server 40 from the systems and devices withineach group G₁ to G_(n) as well as the results of any computation oranalysis (e.g., forecast) completed by the weather computing system 50.

Yet further, FIG. 1 also includes the weather computing system 50referred to above. Such a system may include one or more hardwareservers and other computing devices that are operable to: (1) form orre-form the composition of the groups G₁ to G_(n), (2) aggregatepassively and actively collected weather information received fromsystems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and devices 31 a-n within each group (via server40), (3) complete weather-related computations based on the passivelyand actively collected weather information, sometimes in conjunctionwith stored historical information, and, thereafter, provide thecomputations (e.g. forecasts) to devices 30 a-30 n, 31 a-n (via server40) or to devices that are not a part of a group G₁ to G_(n), but havesubscribed to receive, or otherwise requested, such computations.

Though each device 20 a-n within a group G₁ to G_(n) may becommunicatively paired with at least one device 30 a-n within itsrespective group G₁ to G_(n), it should be understood that eachrespective device 20 a-n within a group may nonetheless be operable tocommunicate with additional devices 30 a-n, 31 a-n that a respectivedevice 20 a-n is not paired with. For example, device 20 a (an umbrella)may communicate with communicatively paired device 30 a (a smartphone)but also may communicate with a second device 30 b (second smartphone),third device 31 a, etc., that is within the transmission range of thetransmitter of device 20 a.

It should be further understood that each device 30 a-n, 31 a-n withinone group, say group G₁, for example, may communicate with each otherand, in addition, may communicate with devices 30 a-n′, 31 a-n′ withineach other group G_(n) directly (without first communicating with server40, or system 50) or indirectly (by first communicating with server 40or system 50).

As described in more detail herein, in an embodiment, to completecommunications with one or more of the devices 30 a-30 n, 31 a-n eachdevice 20 a-n may comprise a wireless Bluetooth transceiver (seecomponent 2005B in FIG. 2K) (e.g., one or more 802.11 versions/formats)or wired means (e.g., USB, Ethernet, HDMI, etc.,) to establish acommunications channel(or channels) with a respective device 30 a-n, 31a-n. Each device 30 a-n, 31 a-n may be operable to store one or moreAPPs or instructions, for example, used to complete the functions,features and processes described herein, including receivingcommunications and weather-related information from a device 20 a-n.

Before presenting a discussion of the operation of an exemplary passivesystem 20 a-n, and 30 a-n or an active device 31 a-n, we first present adiscussion of how the exemplary weather computing platform 50 may formthe dynamic, micro-climate collection groups G₁ to G_(n). Before that,however, we note that while the weather computing system 50 and server40 are depicted in FIG. 1 as being separate, functional components, inan alternative embodiment the functions of the server 40 may be combinedinto the system 50, for example, or vice-versa.

In an embodiment, the weather computing system 50, or alternatively theserver 40, may be operable to form one or more dynamic, micro-climatecollection groups, such as groups G₁ to G_(n) in FIG. 1. For purposes ofthe following discussion we will use the system 50 as the primary systemfor forming dynamic, micro-climate collection groups though it should beunderstood that the same or similar discussion applies to the server 40(or for any other system, device that is configured to form suchgroups).

To form an exemplary group, the system 50 may be operable to receivegeospatial information concerning each paired system 20 a-n, 30 a-n(e.g., umbrella and smartphone) and device 31 a-n (e.g. smartphone) innetwork 100, including, but not limited to, their geographical locationand topology of the area surrounding each system 20 a-n, 30 a-n anddevice 31 a-n. This information may be provided to the system 50 by adevice 30 a-n within each system and by each device 31 a-n (via server40), or may be provided to the weather computing system 50 by othermeans, such as a separate geospatial database and server, or separateGPS database and server, for example.

In addition, as indicated previously, the system 50 may be operable to:(1) receive current, passively and actively collected weather-relatedinformation from each system 20 a-n, 30 a-n in real-time and current,actively collected weather information from devices 31 a-n, (2) retrieveor receive historical geospatial information related to the devices 20a-n, 30 a-n from database 41 or another similar data storage device, and(4) retrieve or receive historical, actively or passively collectedweather-related information that was previously received from each ofthe systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and devices 31 a-n.

Upon receiving and/or retrieving the information discussed above thesystem 50 may be operable to group one or more of the systems 20 a-n, 30a-n and devices 31 a-n into a dynamic, micro-climate collection group inreal-time by, for example, identifying one or more commoncharacteristics among the received and retrieved information. In moredetail, one example of a common characteristic may be the same orsubstantially the same, current geospatial information. Thus, in oneembodiment the system 50 may be operable to group those systems 20 a-n,30 a-n and/or devices 31 a-n within network 100 that currently have thesame or substantially the same geospatial information into the samedynamic, micro-climate collection group. Said another way, in oneembodiment the system 50 may form a dynamic, micro-climate collectiongroup by including in such a group only those systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n anddevices 31 a-n that are currently located in the same geospatial plane(e.g. same geographical area, same elevation and same topology). Bygrouping together those systems and devices that are currentlyassociated with the same, or substantially the same geospatialinformation, in one group helps to insure that the weather relatedinformation that is received by weather computing system 50 from suchsystems and devices reflects the actual weather conditions currentlyoccurring within such a geospatial plane. This, in turn, helps increasethe reliability of the received weather-related information. In theembodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the system 50 may have formed systems 20a-n, 30 a-n and devices 31 a-n in group G₁ based on the fact that eachof the systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and devices 31 a-n are associated with thesame or substantially the same geospatial information.

In addition to geospatial information, the system 50 may apply one ormore rules to form a dynamic, micro-climate collection group. Forexample, to insure that the weather-related information of a given groupis statistically reliable, the system 50 may require that a groupinclude a minimum (threshold) number of systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and/ordevices 31 a-n that currently are associated with the same orsubstantially the same geospatial information. Conversely, the system 50may require that a group not contain a total number of systems 20 a-n,30 a-n and devices 31 a-n that are associated with the same orsubstantially the same geospatial information that exceeds a maximum(threshold) number in order to, for example.

In an embodiment, if the system 50 determines that the number of systems20 a-n, 30 a-n and/or devices 31 a-n associated with a commoncharacteristic, such as the same or substantially the same geospatialinformation, exceeds a maximum, threshold number, then the system 50 maybe operable to form an additional group that contains the systems anddevices that are among the number of devices that exceed the maximumthreshold. Conversely, if the system 50 determines that the number ofsystems and/or devices 20 a-n associated with a common characteristic,such as the same or substantially the same geospatial information, isless than a minimum threshold number, then the system 50 may eitherdecline to form a group with such systems and/or devices, or,alternatively, assign the system and/or devices to a group that containsdifferent systems 20 a-n,30 a-n and/or 31 a-n devices whose geospatialinformation may not be substantially the same as the assigned devicesbut may comprise adjacent geospatial information (i.e., devices that arenot in the same geospatial plane, but are nearby, or as close aspossible to, such a plane).

It should be understood that the system 50 may be operable tocontinuously receive geospatial information concerning all of thesystems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and devices 31 a-n within network 100. Thus, astime passes and a given system 20 a-n, 30 a-n or device 31 a-n movesfrom one geospatial area to another, for example, their movement will bereflected in new or updated geospatial information. Because a system 20a-n, 30 a-n or device 31 a-n may be associated with differentgeo-spatial information, it may no longer share a common geo-spatialcharacteristic with the existing members of its group. Accordingly, thesystem 50, on determining that the so-moved system 20 a-n, 30 a-n ordevice 31 a-n is indeed associated with new geo-spatial information thatis substantially different from the geo-spatial information of the othermembers of its existing group, may be operable to remove the so movedsystem 20 a,n 30 a,n or device 31 a-n from its existing group and placeit (assign it) into another, existing group whose geospatialcharacteristics are substantially the same as the new characteristics ofthe so moved system 20 a-n, 30 a-n or device 31 a-n. This is process maybe continuously repeatedly for each system 20 a,n 30 a,n and device 31a-n that is part of the network. Thus, the composition of a group may beconstantly changing over time, making it very dynamic.

Because the weather computing system 50 and/or server 40 receivesgeospatial information concerning a system 20 a-n,30 a-n and/or device31 a-n that is moving, the system 50 and/or server 40 (hereafterreferred to as “system 50” unless the context dictates otherwise) may beoperable to determine the direction (path) of a system or device (e.g.,direction, elevation and speed of such a moving system or device) uponcombining the original and new geospatial information along with timeinformation (e.g., time elapsed between one geospatial position andanother), for example. Further, based upon a computed direction andspeed the system 50 may be able to provide the user of moving system 20a-n,30 a-n and/or device 31 a-n with the current or historicalweather-related conditions for a geospatial position in the directionthat the system or device is moving.

In the above discussion it was assumed that only a single system 20a-n,30 a-n and/or device 31 a-n within a formed dynamic, micro-climatecollection group G₁ to G_(n) was moving. Of course, more than one suchsystem or device may be moving. Accordingly, the system 50 may beoperable to compare the geospatial information for each of the so-movingsystems and devices, and if some (or all) of the moving systems 20 a-n,30 a-n and/or devices 31 a-n, move in substantially the same direction,at substantially the same speed at substantially the same time, thentheir geospatial information at a given moment in time that is receivedand/or computed by the system 50 may also be substantially the same.Accordingly, the weather computing system 50 may be operable todetermine that those systems and devices that have substantially thesame geospatial information may remain in the substantially same groupin real-time, for example.

In the embodiments above, the weather computing system 50 was describedas using geospatial information and/or a minimum/maximum number ofsystems 20 a-n,30 a-n and/or devices 31 a-n as information to form adynamic, micro-climate collection group. However, the system 50 mayutilize other information it receives from a system 20 a-n,30 a-n and/ordevice 31 a-n, of from another information source (e.g., historicalinformation from its database 41) separately, or in combination with,geospatial information and/or a minimum/maximum number of systems and/ordevices to form a dynamic, micro-climate collection group G₁ to G_(n).

For example, the system 50 may vary the physical size of thegeographical area that is used to form a group. Said another way, thesystem 50 may enlarge or shrink the area within which a number ofsystems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and/or devices 31 a-n are found or may be found.Thus, the size of the physical area and the geospatial information ofsuch an area may be the common characteristic that the system 50 may useto form a dynamic, micro-climate collection group.

Other information may be used to form a group as well. In yet anotherembodiment, the system 50 may be operable to compute the reliability ofweather-related information received from a particular system 20 a-n,30a-n and/or device 31 a-n in real-time and use this reliabilityinformation as the common characteristic alone, or in combination withone or more other common characteristics, to form a dynamic,micro-climate collection group G₁ to G_(n).

In an embodiment, the weather computing system 50 may utilize a “smartreporting” process to determine the reliability of weather-relatedinformation it receives in a passive or active manner from a givensystem 20 a-n, 30 a-n and/or device 31 a-n at a given moment in time.For example, upon receiving weather-related information from a specificsystem 20 a-n, 30 a-n or device 31 a-n the weather computing system 50may be operable to compare that information with other information it isreceiving from other systems and/or devices within the same group orassociated with substantially the same geospatial information inreal-time (e.g., in the same area). In addition, or in conjunction withthe above process, the system 50 may be operable to compare the currentweather-related information received from a specific system and/ordevice to stored, historical weather-related information to determinethe reliability of the current information. In any event, if the weathercomputing system 50 determines that the current weather-relatedinformation from a specific collection system or device is notconsistent with the weather information received from other nearbyweather collection systems and/or historical information than theinformation from the specific collection system or device may bedisregarded.

At any point in time the system 50 may have formed, and stored, anynumber of dynamic, micro-climate collection groups. Thereafter, thesystem 50 may be operable to provide the current or historical, storedweather-related information, among other information, that it has alsoreceived that is associated with each formed group G₁ to G_(n) and eachsystem 20 a-n, 30 a-n and/or device 31 a-n within a group G₁ to G_(n) toany system 20 a-n,30 a-n or device 31 a-n within the network 100 and/orto subscribers that request such information but are not a part of thenetwork 100, for example.

One example of a subscriber that may not be a user of a system 20 a-n,30 a-n, or device 31 a-n within network 100, yet be interested in theweather-related information associated with the dynamic, micro-climatecollection groups, is a meteorologist.

In embodiments of the invention, weather-related information associatedwith a group G₁ to G_(n) may be used as a part of one or more services,such as a Weather-As-A Service (WAAS), for example.

In an embodiment, a meteorologist or other individual may be interestedin retrieving some of the stored weather-related information from system50 that corresponds with specific geospatial location(s). Accordingly,the operator of the network 100 may offer a service that allow such anindividual access to stored weather-related information and otherinformation for a fee, Such an individual may be referred to as a“subscriber” and such a service may be referred to as WAAS.

In more detail, in one embodiment a subscriber or an agent of thesubscriber (i.e., in reality a computing device used by a subscriber orhis/her agent), after completing an authentication process to verify thesubscriber's identity as a valid subscriber, may then make a requestusing an API to the system 50 or whatever system that is storing theweather-related information within network 100 in order to retrieve suchinformation. One exemplary API may include an identification of ageospatial polygon (that includes a geographical area) that is ofinterest to the subscriber.

Upon receiving the response from the API, the system 50 may be operableto (a) identify the geographical areas associated with the polygon, and(b) retrieve and forward the weather-related information thatcorresponds to the polygon to the subscriber or agent.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the ability toretrieve weather-related information for specific geospatial polygons(e.g., specific geographical areas, elevations, topographies) improvesthe ability of a meteorologist, for example, to provide accurate weatherinformation (e.g. forecasts) for specific geographical areas. Inparticular, some geographical areas are remote from an establishednetwork of weather radars and collection stations (e.g., a NationalOceanic and Atmospheric Administration station or tower). Accordingly,the farther a location is from a weather radar, the harder it is for thestation to collect accurate weather-related information from such aremote area and provide accurate weather forecasts for such an area. Insum, the weather-related information that corresponds to the remotelocation may be unavailable or, if available, may be inaccurate.

However, to the extent that a remote area may be substantially containedwithin one or more computed and formed dynamic, micro-climate collectiongroups G₁ to G_(n), the system 5 may be operable to provide theweather-related information that is associated with the remote area to asubscriber so that, for example a subscriber-meteorologist can provideaccurate weather forecasts, for example for such a remote area.

It should be understood that weather-related information is just one ofmany types of information (i.e., data) that can be requested by asubscriber. For example, a subscriber may also request, and the weathercomputing system 50 be operable to provide, information concerning thenumber of systems 20 a-n,30 a-n or devices 31 a-n within a givengeographic area or areas, the number of systems 20 a-n,30 a-n and/ordevices 31 a-n that are in an open and/or closed status, the number ofsystems 20 a-n,30 a-n and/or devices 31 a-n that may be in an “IDLE”state, and geospatial path metrics. It should be further understood thatthe system 50 may be operable to provide such information to asubscriber upon receiving a response via an API or equivalent request.

Regarding the geospatial path metrics, in an embodiment these may behistorical metrics of the number of systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n and devices31 a-n within a given geographical area at a given time of day, forexample. Data can be aggregated over the course of a given day of theweek, for example, to illustrate the movement of the devices 20 a-n (andtheir users). This is believed to be valuable information formeteorologists who seek to provide relevant weather-related informationto those users within predictable areas traveling predictable paths atpredictable times of the day and days of the week. For example, it maybe more valuable to provide a weather forecast to commuters who aretraveling through predictable areas using predictable paths atpredictable times of the day than, perhaps, to those individuals who arenot commuting over predictable paths at predictable times of the day.

Referring now to FIG. 2A there is depicted an exemplary passive weathercollection device 20 a (e.g., inventive umbrella) that may be part of agroup G₁ to G_(n) within the network 100 in FIG. 1 according to anembodiment of the invention. As depicted the device 20 a may comprise aplurality of movable ribs 201 a-n (where “n” is the last rib),reinforced joints 202 a-n (where “n” is the last joint) connecting theribs 201 a-n to a plurality of runners 208 a-n (see FIG. 2F), anadjustable structure 203 (e.g., shaft) connected to the plurality ofrunners 208 a-n (see Figure F and operable to move in accordance with aforce applied to it to along an axis “Y” to expand or contract thesurface area of a covering 200 (e.g., a canopy, i.e., open or close thecanopy), a structural support means 204 (e.g., an inventive handle) forsupporting and stabilizing the structure 203 that is used to control theopening and closing of the ribs 201 a-n and providing means for a personto hold the entire device 20 a. In an embodiment of the invention, thecovering 200 includes a section that is devoted to an electronictracking element 205 that is discussed in more detail elsewhere herein.

In more detail, the ribs 201 a-n may comprise a 4-millimeter-thick gaugefiberglass material. This type and amount of material provides strengthto the ribs to reduce the potential for malfunctioning (i.e., breakage,inversion of the ribs during high winds, etc..), though it should beunderstood that other configurations (i.e., dimensions, amounts andmaterial types) may be used provided the same or similar degree ofstrength results.

To further reduce malfunctioning of the device 20 a, one or more of thejoints 202 a-n have been configured to be located at positions aroundthe covering 200 that provide additional strength. For example, whileexisting, typical umbrellas position joints approximately in the middleof a rib, the present invention provides for embodiments where thejoints 202 a-n are positioned closer to the top or point of the umbrella20 a. In one embodiment, the joints 202 a-n are positioned 10centimeters closer to the top or point of the umbrella 20 a than jointsof existing umbrellas.

In experiments completed by the inventor, the ribs 201 a-n, joints 202a-n, runners 208 a-n (see FIG. 2F) and covering 200 demonstrate a windresistance of up to 25 meters per second (i.e., 55 miles per hour).

In an embodiment of the invention, the covering 200 may comprise, forexample, a 5-degree pongee fabric (e.g., a soft, thin woven cloth orsilk) that substantially, completely repels water (i.e., is fast-drying)or a similar material that provides similar protection at a plurality ofangles of precipitation (i.e., angle that precipitation impinges on thecovering 200). In an embodiment, the ribs 201 a-n, joints 202 a-n,runners 208 a-n and covering 200 are configured such that the covering200 may be bent downwards from a horizontal plane to a greater degreethan existing umbrellas.

Referring now to FIGS. 2I through 2K there is depicted an exemplary,removable subsystem 2004. In embodiments, the subsystem 2004 may beinserted into, or fit within, the structure 204 (e.g., handle). Whendesired, the subsystem 2004 may be removed from the structure 204 forrepair, replacement, etc., FIG. 2I depicts a top view of the subsystem2004 where a depressible switch plate or “button” 2004 a is depictedwhile FIG. 2J depicts a bottom view of the subsystem 2004 where aremovable cover 2004 b is shown. In an embodiment, the subsystem 2004may be powered by a DC battery (e.g., 1.5 volts, 2000 milliAmphours(3000 mWh)) that is enclosed within the subsystem 2004 (see FIG. 2K). Toaccess the battery, a user may remove the cover 2004 b by turning it,for example. Further, the subsystem 2004 may include a mesh (not shownin figure) that functions to substantially surround the subsystem 2004,allow air into the subsystem 2004 but prevent liquid (e.g., water) fromentering subsystem 2004. It should be noted that allowing air to enterthe subsystem 2004 is necessary for sensing atmospheric weatherconditions, as explained in more detail elsewhere herein.

FIG. 2K depicts an exemplary, exploded view of the subsystem 2004. Asshown, the subsystem 2004 may comprise two mated coverings or shells2004 c,d it being understood that a one piece covering could replace thetwo separate shells 2004 a,b. Both embodiments function to protect theelectronic and electromechanical components that may be included in thesubsystem 2004 within the covering or coverings 2004 c,d.

For example the electromechanical components may comprise switch 2004 e,compressible means 2004 f (e.g., a spring), audible generation means2006 (e.g., a buzzer) while the electronics may comprise electronicsubassembly 2005. As just discussed, the subsystem 2004 may include a DCbattery 2007. In an alternative embodiment, the battery 2007 may be arechargeable battery.

In an embodiment, the components within subsystem 2004 may function to:(1) detect the opening and closing of the device 20 a; (2) use thesignals from (1) to generate data that can be used for accuratelyidentifying weather conditions where the device 20 a is located when itis in an open or closed position, for example; (3) passively sense aplurality of weather conditions at the location where the device 20 a ispresently located; (4) collect data related to items (1) through (3) and(5) communicatively exchange (e.g., transmit and receive) the data andassociated signaling with a paired device 30 a-n or with another device31 a-n, with server 40 and/or weather computing system 50 and (6) emitaudible signals and (7) generate a signal indicating the power level ofthe battery 2007 is low.

In more detail, to close the device 20 a, (see FIG. 2L) the supportstructure 203 may be moved to a position that functions to collapse theribs 201 a-n in a means known in the art. In addition, in an embodiment,as the structure 203 moves a correspondingly connected runner 203 a (seeFIG. 2L) may contact the switch plate 2004 a. Such contact functions toapply a force to the switch plate 2004 a that, for example, depressesthe switch plate 2004 a in a direction towards a movable (e.g.depressible) probe 2004 e′ that is connectibly attached to the switch2004 e (in fact, it may be an integral part of the switch 2004 e). In anembodiment, as the switch plate 2004 a is depressed further it applies aforce to the probe 2004 e′ that forces the probe 2004 e′ through to theinternal portion of the electromechanical switch 2004 e. In anembodiment, the switch 2004 e may function to generate an electricalsignal as the probe 2004 e′ makes contact with the internal elementswithin the body of the switch 2004 e. This signal indicates the device20 a has been substantially closed. It should be understood that theswitch 2004 e and probe 2004 e may be an integral component, forexample. Conversely, referring now to FIG. 2M, as the device 20 a isopened the support structure 203 may be moved to a position thatfunctions to expand the ribs 201 a-n in a means known in the art. Inaddition, in an embodiment, as the structure 203 is moving thecorrespondingly connected runner 203 a may break its contact (i.e., moveaway from) the switch plate 2004 a. The lack of such contact functionsto remove the force applied to the switch plate 2004 a that, forexample, allows the switch plate 2004 a to expand or move in a directionaway from the movable (e.g. depressible) probe 2004 e′. In anembodiment, as the switch plate 2004 a removes the force being appliedto the probe 2004 e′, the probe 2004 e′ moves out of contact withinternal elements within the switch 2004 e. In an embodiment, the switch2004 e may function to generate a second electrical signal as the probe2004 e′ looses contact with the internal elements within the body of theswitch 2004 e, This second signal indicates the device 20 a has beensubstantially opened.

In an embodiment the runner 203 a may comprise a nylon material, forexample.

In an embodiment, the signals generated by the switch 2004 e may be sentto the electronic subassembly 2005. Though not shown in FIG. 2K itshould be under stood that the switch 2004 e may be physically andelectrically connected to the subassembly 2005 using means known in theart such as soldering the switch 2004 e to electrical conductors (notshown in FIG. 2K) that are part of a printed circuit board or othersupporting structure 2005 e. The signals from the switch 2004 e maytravel via the conductors to the microcontroller 2005 a, for example.

Referring now to FIGS. 2N through 2Q there is depicted an exemplarylocking subsystem 203 c,d for locking the shaft 203 of the device 20 a(e.g., an umbrella) in a closed position. As depicted, the lockingsystem 203 c,d may comprise a non-square shaped (e.g., V-shaped) “lock”slot, or groove 203 c (see FIGS. 2P,2Q) and a non-square shaped,elongated (e.g. V-shaped) “key” that is configured to fit into thegroove 203 c forming a combination lock and key arrangement. As will beappreciated by those skilled in the art, the non-square shapedconfiguration of the system 203 c,d functions to secure the key 203 dwithin the lock 203 c when stresses or forces are applied to the shaft203, for example. In existing systems, particularly those that usesquared shaped lock and key configurations, a rotational force may beenough to dislodge a square-shaped key from a square-shaped lock(groove) thus causing an inadvertent release of the shaft 203 andopening of an umbrella. The inventive system 203 c,d significantlyreduces such inadvertent openings, among other things.

Turning now to the subassembly 2005, in an embodiment it may include themicrocontroller 2005 a, wireless transceiver 2005 b (e.g. Bluetoothlow-energy transceiver), weather sensors 2005 c all of which may besupported by structure 2005 d (e.g., printed circuit board). In anembodiment the structure 2005 d includes conductors (not shown in FIG.2K) for electrically (and, or optically) connecting components 2005 a,2005 b and 2005 c (among other components). Components 2005 a to 2005 cmay be physically and electrically connected to the conductors usingsoldering, for example.

Turning first to the weather sensors 2005 c, in an embodiment thesesensors may be operable to sense a plurality of weather-relatedparameters from air that is allowed within the subsystem 2004, forexample. Such parameters include temperature, humidity and barometricpressure, for example. Thereafter, signals representing a value of asensed parameter may be sent to the microcontroller 2005 a for furtherprocessing and computation. Alternatively, the signals may be sent tothe transceiver 2005 b. In an embodiment, the transceiver 2005 b may beoperable to receive such signals and transmit the signals asweather-related information to a device 30 a-n, 31 a-n, server 40 or tothe weather computing system 50, for example.

It should be understood that the sensors 2005 c may repeatedly detectthe one or more weather-related parameters every few seconds, forexample, and send associated signals representing the value of theso-detected parameters to the microcontroller 2005 a. However, inaccordance with alternative embodiments the microcontroller 2005 a maynot send data representative of the values to the transceiver 2005 bevery few seconds. Rather, the microcontroller may be operable to sendsuch data to the transceiver 2005 b every few minutes (e.g., 1-3minutes).

In embodiments of the invention both the microcontroller 2005 a andsensors 2005 c may be operable to execute instructions (e.g., firmware)stored in their electronic memory or another memory (not shown in FIG.2K) that effectively controls or varies the time period betweentransmissions, from a few seconds to a few minutes, for example. Stillfurther, the microcontroller 2005 a may be operable to receive signalsfrom a device 30 a (e.g., a smartphone) via transceiver 2005 b, wherethe signals may contain data that represents a time period that the userof device 30 a wishes to have weather-related information (or otherinformation, signals, values, data) transmitted to their device 30 a oron to server 40 and/or weather computing system 50. In sum, the timeperiod may be customized.

In an embodiment, the transceiver 2005 b may comprise a Bluetoothtransceiver that functions to transmit and receive signals to and fromuser device 30 a-n, or 31 a-n for example, in accordance with aBluetooth BLE 4.2+ protocol/standard, for example. In an embodiment, thesignals exchanged between the transceiver 2005 b and device 30 a,31 amay be compatible with, and used by, an APP running on the user device30 a,31 a. In addition to weather-related information the transceiver2005 b may be operable to transmit and/or receive a plurality of othersignals/data, such as the status of the device 20 a (i.e., open orclosed), received signal strength indicator (i.e. an indication(s) ofthe signal strength of a signal transmitted from one of the devices 30a-n, 31 a-n and device 20 a, and information regarding the batteryvoltage of the device's 20 a battery (see FIG. 2K, component 2007), forexample.

As was mentioned previously, in addition to receiving valuesrepresentative of weather-related parameters from sensors 2005 c, themicrocontroller 2005 a may also receive device status signals—signalsgenerated by the switch 2004 e that indicate whether the device 20 a isin an open or closed state. In yet a further embodiment, themicrocontroller 2005 a may be operable to compute the number of receivedsignals that indicate the device 20 a was opened and/or closed and storethis computed, status number in its memory for transmission to a device30 a-n, 31 a-n, server 40 and/or system 50 via transceiver 2005 b.

Given that the device 20 a may typically rely upon a DC battery 2007 forpowering its operation, the inventors designed the subsystem 2004 suchthat it may, in one embodiment, operate in an energy-saving, low powermode that makes efficient use of the power supplied by the battery 2007.For example, an exemplary weather sensor 2005 c may draw a current of3.6 microAmps (maximum) at 3 volts (˜10 microwatts of power) every 10seconds, the microcontroller 2005 a itself may draw (use) 800 microAmpsat 3 volts (˜2400 microwatts of power), and the transceiver 2005 b mayuse 4000 to 4170 microAmps at 3 volts (˜12000 microwatts of power) foran exemplary total of 14410 microwatts of 14.41 milliwatts of power.

Given the above power requirements it is estimated that the battery 2007may supply power to the components of subsystem 2004 for approximately208 hours.

Accordingly, to increase the time before the battery 2007 needs to bereplaced or recharged the inventors provide for a low power mode. Moreparticularly, the microcontroller 2005 a may be operable to executeinstructions stored in its memory (e.g., firmware) to operate thecomponents of the subsystem 2004 in a low power mode by, for examplecontrolling the time between transceiver transmissions (as explainedabove) and placing the sensors 2005 c in an “idle “mode”. In such anidle mode the microcontroller 2005 a may be operable to control theoperation of the sensors 2005 c such that they (a) only make sensedmeasurements of weather related parameters or (b) send signals,representative of the value of the so-measured weather-relatedparameters, in accordance with one or more pre-set time periods ratherthan make such measurements or send such values substantiallycontinuously (e.g. every 10 milliseconds). In the time between suchmeasurements or sending such values the sensors 2005 c may requirereduced power (i.e., may operate in a low power or “idle” mode). Yetfurther, an exemplary low power mode may also involve themicrocontroller 2005 a controlling the frequency and transmitted powerof signals being transmitted from the transceiver 2005 b, for example(e.g., transmit at lower powers and at different Bluetooth frequencies).

Nonetheless, there may be times when the power level of the battery 2007is low. Realizing this, the inventors provide for exemplary subsystems2004 that include a “low power” battery indicator that functions toalert a user of device 20 a to change or charge the battery 2007. Forexample, the microcontroller 2005 a may be operable to executeinstructions stored in memory that control the output of an audiblesound, tone or series of tones from the buzzer 2006 and/or control avisual means, such as turning an LED indicator “ON” when the power levelof the battery is below one or more pre-set, stored threshold levels andturning the LED “OFF” when the power level exceeds one or more preset,stored threshold levels, for example.

In conjunction with the tracking features discussed elsewhere herein, orindependent of such features, the subsystem 2004 may be operable tooutput an audible sound or visual indication that functions as an alertor notification that assists the user in locating the device 20 a whenthe user is unsure of its location. More particularly, themicrocontroller 2005 a may be operable to execute instructions stored inmemory that control the output of an audible sound, tone or series oftones from the buzzer 2006 and/or control a visual means, such asturning an LED indicator “ON” and “OFF” in a pattern, for example.

Referring now to FIG. 2B there is depicted a sectional view of thedevice 20 a that focuses on the location of the tracking element 205according an exemplary embodiment of the invention. As shown, thetracking element 205 may be located on underside surface of the covering200, within a cavity 205 a of the covering 200, such as a water-proofpocket in combination with a water-proof zipper that is heat sealed orother equivalent structure, for example. Though shown positioned at anedge section of the covering 200, it should be understood that device 20a may be configured such that the tracking element 205 may be located atanother section of the covering 200, other than the edge. Alternatively,the device 20 a may be further configured to include the trackingelement 205 positioned on a different element of the device 20 a otherthan the covering 200, such as on the shaft 203 or as a part of controlmeans 204. For the sake of simplicity these embodiments are not shown inthe figures.

After the tracking element 205 has been paired with one or more userdevices 30 a-n using means known in the art, a transceiver within theelement 205 (not shown in FIG. 2B) may be operable to exchange signalswith a communicatively paired user device 30 a-n (e.g., a smartphone),the network server 40, another device 20 b through 20 n or an elementwithin another personal weather network, for example. Further, in oneembodiment the transceiver may generate Bluetooth formatted signals(e.g., Bluetooth 4.1 formatted signals) that may be received by a userdevice 30 a (e.g., smartphone). Upon receiving the Bluetooth signal, theuser device 30 a may be operable to process the signals in order tocompute the location of the device 20 a (e.g., inventive umbrella), itsdistance from the device 30 a, a suggested pathway or route to retrievethe device 20 a, an address of the device 20 a and a business orresidential name associated with the address (e.g., a restaurant name,business/employer's office, home residence, etc.), for example.Alternatively, the computations may be made by the server 40, system 50or another device 30 b-n that has been linked to the device 30 a, forexample.

Referring now to FIGS. 2G and 2H there are depicted additional views ofan exemplary, inventive device 20 a (e.g., umbrella). As shown in thetop view of FIG. 2G, the device 20 a may include means for closing theumbrella 210 a,b, for example, associated top and bottom closing straps210 a,b that may comprise mating Velcro strips. while in the bottom viewof FIG. 2H the device 20 a may include an additional cavity 205 b ormesh pocket for carrying articles. Further, in an embodiment one or moreof the ribs 201 a-n may comprise a silicon coated surface that functionsto provide a no-slip surface and to support one or more items, such as agolf towel for example.

In one embodiment, this information (as well as additional information,see for example FIGS. 3A and 3B) may be presented to the user ofcommunicatively paired device 30 a (who is presumably, but need not be,the owner of device 20 a) on a display of the device 30 a, for example.Yet further, in conjunction with, or separate from the presentation ofsuch information, the device 30 a may output one or more signals, suchas an audible sound or pattern of sounds that may indicate the device 30a and/or its user is within a certain distance from the device 20 a(e.g., umbrella).

The devices 20 a-n, 30 a-n, server 40 and system 50 may utilize (e.g.,store and execute) one or more third party proprietary processes tocomplete one or more functions and features described herein orequivalent features and functions, such as the tracking function forexample. On such proprietary process is the PebbleBee™ utility, forexample.

FIG. 2C depicts an exemplary control means 204 (e.g., a handle)according to an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, thecontrol means 204 may be configured to include one or more ergonomicallycurved surfaces having dimensions that comfortably receive a widevariety of sizes of user's hands, for example, in order to maximize thecomfort realized by the user (e.g., minimize the forces, such aspressures, placed on a user's hands or fingers) while at the same timeinsuring that the user is able to securely hold, and/or operate, thedevice 20 a (see FIG. 2E for exemplary dimensions). In one embodiment,the element 204 may comprise a thermoplastic rubber material withreinforced nylon plastic, for example, to provide a stabilizing grip toa user of the device 20 a though other similar materials may be used.

In an alternative embodiment, the control means 204 may further comprisemeans for sensing the position of the ribs 201 a-n and/or runners 208a-n in order to determine if the ribs 201 a-n and/or runners 208 a-n areopen or closed (i.e., is the umbrella open or closed). In more detail,the sensing means may comprise magnetic contacts or similar structurelocated with respect to the ribs 201 a-n and runners 208 a-n, forexample, that can be used to generate one or more signals indicative ofthe position of the ribs 201 a-n and/or runners 208 a-n, and, thereforethe status of the umbrella. For example, the position of the magneticcontacts may generate a first type of signal or signal level that mayindicate the ribs 201 a-n and/or runners 208 a-n have been expanded orextended, while another position of the contacts may lead to thegeneration of a second signal type or level that may indicate that theribs 201 a-n and/or runners 208 a-n have been contracted or retracted,for example.

Still further, components within the control means 204 (see FIG. 2K) maybe operable to exchange signals with a communicatively paired device 30a, or with server 40, for example, in order to communicate the sensed ormeasured data and/or status of the device 20 a. In an embodiment, uponreceiving signals from a plurality of devices 20 a-n, one or more of thedevices 30 a-n, 31 a-n, server 40 or system 50 may be operable todetermine the weather conditions local to the devices 20 a-n. By way ofa non-limiting example, one or more of devices 30 a-n, 31 a-n, server 40or system 50 may conclude (i.e., compute) that the weather conditionslocal to the devices 20 a-n include precipitation or bright sunshinebecause the signals from these devices 20 a-n indicate that the devices20 a-n (umbrellas) are all (or almost all) open, or conversely, concludethat the weather conditions local to the devices 20 a-n do not includeprecipitation or bright sunshine because the signals indicate thedevices 20 a-n are closed. In an embodiment, the one or more devices 30a-n, server 40 or system 50 may make such computations by executinginstructions stored in its memory (or elsewhere) for completing astatistical analysis or estimation, for example.

As previously discussed, sensors within a device 20 a-n may be operableto sense or measure data related to temperature, barometric pressure,air quality, wind speed, pressure applied to the covering 200 to namejust a few of the parameters, and, thereafter, provide the sensed ormeasured data to a device 30 a-n, 31 a-n, server 40, and/or system 50for example, via communication signals so that such apparatuses 30 a-n,31 a-n, 40 and 50 may, in turn, provide messages or responsive signalsto the devices 20 a-n, for example.

FIG. 2D depicts another view of the element 204 depicted in FIG. 2Caccording to an embodiment of the invention. As depicted, FIG. 2Dcomprises an ergonomic curved surface 209 having dimensions thatcomfortably receive a wide variety of sizes of user's hands, forexample, in order to maximize the comfort realized by the user (e.g.,minimize the forces, such as pressures, placed on a user's hands orfingers) while at the same time insuring that the user is able tosecurely hold, and/or operate, the device 20 a (see FIG. 2E forexemplary dimensions). More particularly, the control means 204 maycomprise a dimension 207 (i.e., thickness) that comfortably receives awide variety of sizes of user's hands, for example, while at the sametime insuring that the user is able to securely hold, and/or operate,the entire device 20 a.

Element 204 further comprises connection means 206 for connecting thestructure 203 (e.g., shaft) to the control means 204 (e.g., handle),such as a female/male combination where the shaft 203 may comprise anend configured as a male insertion piece, and the connection means 206is configured as a female, reception piece, for example. Yet further,FIG. 2D depicts an exemplary shape for the control means 204 thatcomprises an ergonomically comfortable shape operable to receive a widerange of hand sizes and shapes.

FIG. 2E depicts some exemplary dimensions of a control means 204, thoughthe dimensions shown are merely exemplary.

FIG. 2F depicts a sectional view of the underside of the covering 200(i.e., with the umbrella opened). As shown, the device 20 a may comprisea plurality of covering runners 208 a-n that may be connected to theplurality of ribs 201 a-n by the plurality of reinforced joints 202 a-n.In an embodiment, the runners may be 5 millimeters in thickness, forexample.

It should be understood that the size of the device 20 a (e.g.,umbrella) may vary. Nonetheless, the same features and functionsdescribed herein may be incorporated into a small umbrella (“mini”umbrella) or larger umbrella (golf course sized umbrella).

Referring now to FIGS. 3A to 3C, there are depicted exemplary images 302a-n (where “n” is the last image) that may be generated by a device 30a-n, 31 a-n (e.g., by an APP downloaded to, and running on, device 30a-n, 31 a-n) that has been paired with a device 20 a, for example. In anembodiment, the images 302 a-n may be visually presented to a user ofdevice 30 a on a display 301 a according to embodiments of theinvention. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 3A the image 302 a maycomprise one or more weather-related conditions 303 a-n (where “n” isthe last condition) and/or associated messages, alerts, notifications,settings or instructions (collectively “messages”) 304 a-n (where “n” isthe last message). One such message 304 a-n is depicted in image 302 bin FIG. 3B. This exemplary message may inform the user of system 20 a,30a of the current weather conditions surrounding the system 20 a,30 aand/or device 30 a, forecasted weather conditions, and that the user mayneed to use their device 20 a because “Precipitation is in theforecast”, to name just one of many types of weather related orassociated messages that may be presented to the user within an image302 a-n on display 301 a. Alternatively, the weather conditions 303 a-nand messages 304 a-n may be provided to the user audibly, as acombination of an image and audible sounds, as vibratory signals thatcomprise a pattern that can be recognized by the user or a combinationof any of the above types of signals/images.

In FIG. 3B, the image 302 b may further comprise a given time 305 andday (when time and a date is displayed), and a desirable photographicimage 306, for example. In FIG. 3C, an image 302 c may comprise statusmessages 307 related to the operation of the device 20 a (umbrella)(e.g., the umbrella 20 a is within range of the smartphone 30 a) and/ormessages 310 related to when the device 30 a last connected to thedevice 20 a. for example. Yet further, the image 302 c may include a mapgrid 309 a-n that depicts the present location of the device 30 a.

As before, the displayed messages may be provided to the user audibly,as a combination of an image and audible sounds, as vibratory signalsthat comprise a pattern that can be recognized by the user or acombination of any of the above types of signals/images.

It should be understood that the images 302 a-n and associated content303 to 310 depicted in FIGS. 3A to 3C may also be displayed on devices31 a-n.

Further, it should be understood that the images 302 a-n and associatecontent 303-310 may be generated by the server 40 or weather computingsystem 50 instead of by a device 30 a-n, 31 a-n and then transmitted toa device 30 a-n, 31 a-n as well (individually directed or broadcast)based on signals the server 40 or system 50 receives from the systems 20a-n, 30 a-n and devices 31 a-n, for example, or based on processesstored within such server 40 and/or system 50. Accordingly, the imagesand messages are merely exemplary of the type of images and messagesthat may be sent from server 40 or system 50. Still further, uponreceipt of an image, message or another type of signal from a server 40or system 50, a device 30 a-n, 31 a-n may be able to output an audio orvisual signal. The output may comprise a pattern of blinking lights oraudible sounds that blink or emit (e.g., turn “off” and “on”) in apattern (when such audible or visual elements are made a part of adevice of course). An audible or visual pattern may function to remindthe user to use the umbrella 20 a, or may function to remind the user heor she has forgotten the umbrella 20 a if, for example.

Though the exemplary embodiments described above focus on communicationsbetween the server 40 and devices 20 a-n and 30 a-n, it should beunderstood that communications (signals and messages) may occur betweenone device 20 a-n and another device 20 a-n, and/or between one device30 a-n, 31 a-n and another device 30 a-n,31 a-n without having to firsttraverse the server 40, for example.

For example, upon receiving signals from devices 20 a-n that indicatethe status (open or closed) of a device 20 a-n or upon receivinginformation that has been manually input by a user of device 20 a-n(umbrella) via their device 30 a-n (e.g., smartphone) the server 40an/or system 50 may be operable to determine the reliability of thesignals it is receiving from a given device and/or user. For example,the server 40 or system 50 may compare the signals it receivesindicating that a device 20 a-n is open (and, therefore it may beraining) with other meteorological information to insure that, in fact,it was indeed raining in the area where the device 20 a-n was located atthe time the signal was sent to the server 40 and/or system 50.Similarly, other types of received signals may be verified by comparingit to statistically verifiable meteorological information, for example,or to other signals received from other devices 20 a-n within the samearea as the suspect signal. Upon completing such comparisons, the server40 and/or system 50 may store the results of the comparison and applythe results to one or more statistical analyses to determine thereliability of a given device 20 a-n or devices 20 a-n. Thereafter, theserver 40 and/or system 50 may be operable to generate or otherwise forma group consisting of those devices 20 a-n it determines are the mostreliable. As for the devices 20 a-n that are not determined to bereliable, the server 40 and/or system 50 may be operable to ignoresignals sent from such a device for the particular point in time andparticular measurement when the information is inconsistent with otherinformation, for example. Of course, the server 40 and/or system 50 maybe operable to generate a group or groups by combining one or morefactors. For example, a group may be formed from those devices 20 a-nthat are determined to be the most reliable, however, the number ofdevices 20 a-n within such a group may also meet the minimum number ofdevices 20 a-n and not exceed the maximum number of devices 20 a-n.

Backtracking somewhat, the discussion above focused on a subscriber whofor the most part may be a trained meteorologist. Such a subscriber maynot, in fact, be a user of a device 20 a-n or 30 a-n. Rather, thesubscriber is just interested in receiving reliable weather-relatedinformation. In other embodiments the subscriber may be a user of adevice 20 a-n and may not be a trained meteorologist. In such a scenariothe information that such a user requests from the server 40 and/orsystem 50 may be the immediate and forecasted weather conditionssurrounding the user's (and her systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n; both a shortterm and long term forecast) present or future area/location, the numberof devices 20 a-n that are present within the same present area andtheir status (open or closed), for example. This information may beprovided to a user of a device 20 a-n through communications andmessages sent from the server 40 and/or system 50 to the user's device30 a-n (smartphone). Some exemplary messages are depicted in FIGS. 3A to3C.

With the capabilities described above, the present invention providesthe ability to provide users and subscribers with forecasts.

Backtracking again, regarding the microcontroller 2005A, it should beunderstood that each microcontroller 2005A within a given device 20 amay be operable to receive the status (open or closed) of itscorresponding device 20 a, as well as other information and, inaddition, transmit this information to other devices 30 a-n(smartphones) within the transmission range of its transceiver 2005B.That is to say, the information from a given device 20 a (umbrella) maybe sent to its paired device 30 a (smartphone) as well as additional,unpaired devices 30 a-n (smartphones) within the transmission range ofthe given device 20 a. Accordingly, when one or more devices 30 a-n, 31a-n (smartphones) are within the transmission range of a given device 20a-n (umbrella) each of the devices 30 a-n may be operable to receiveinformation from the device 20 a-n and relay (but not permanently storefor security reasons) the information onto the server 40 and/or system50. However, in embodiments of the invention, to avoid unnecessaryduplication, the server 40 and/or system 50 may be operable to monitorthe devices 30 a-n and, upon determining that one of the additional,unpaired devices 30 a-n, 31 a-n has already received the informationfrom the given device 20 a and transmitted the information to the server40 and/or system 50, may be operable to send signals to the remainingdevices 30 a-n, 31 a-n that have received the same information (but havenot yet sent it on to the server 40 and/or system 50) to instruct themnot to transmit the information to the server 40 and/or system 50.Alternatively, the server 40 and or system 50 may be operable toinstruct the additional, unpaired devices to ignore the information fromthe given device 20 a-n. It may occur to the reader that one device 30a-n,31 a-n may be within range of a number of devices 20 a-n, and, thus,may be capable of receiving information from a number of devices 20 a-n.Accordingly, each device 30 a-n may include an electronic queue thattemporarily stores the information it receives from a given device 20a-n until it is time to transmit the information to the server 40 and/orsystem 50 (provided of course it does not receive an instruction to notsend the information) based on a first-in, first-out priority process,for example.

Thus, the server 40 and/or system 50 may be operable to receiveweather-related information, device status information and otherinformation directly from a device 20 a-n, from its paired device 30 a-nor from an additional device 30 a-n.

In embodiments of the invention, the server 40 and/or system 50 may beable to generate a plurality of reports based on one or more types ofstatistical analyses of the received information. These analyses may bestored by the server 40 and/or system 50 and may be made available to auser or subscriber upon request or in accordance with a subscriptionagreement.

The ability to generate statistically reliable weather-relatedinformation for a geographical area, that may be remote from an existingweather station, is believed to be valuable for both short-term, andlong-term forecasting.

Regarding short-term forecasting, in an embodiment the weather-relatedinformation received from systems 20 a-n, 30 a-n may be used tocontinuously generate a short-term forecast for a given geographicalarea that is updated and stored by the server 40 and/or system 50 atleast every hour, or more rapidly. In one embodiment, the longest periodof time between updates may be one hour to insure the forecast iscurrent and accurate.

With respect to long-term forecasting, the server 40 and/or system 50may be operable to generate a long-term forecast for a givengeographical area based on current information it has received fromsystems 20 a-n, 30 a-n as well as historical information it has storedin its memory or in an associated database (or databases).

The embodiments discussed herein have included the exchange orcommunication of signals between devices, servers and systems that maybe used to compute weather related conditions. It should be understoodthat these signals may be encrypted (e.g., TLS encryption) before beingexchanged or communicated. Yet further, the encrypted signals may beexchanged or communicated via a secure, private APIs, for example.

It should be apparent that the foregoing describes only selectedembodiments of the invention. Numerous changes and modifications may bemade to the embodiments disclosed herein without departing from thegeneral spirit and scope of the invention.

We claim:
 1. A weather-information collection system, the systemcomprising: a central computing device operable to, form or re-form oneor more configurable, micro-climate collection groups, one or more ofthe groups comprising a plurality of first devices for passivelycollecting weather-related information and one or more second devicesfor passively and actively collecting weather-related information eachof the second devices communicatively paired with at least one of thefirst devices; determine a path of one of the first or second deviceswithin the formed or re-formed configurable, micro-climate collectiongroup based on geo-spatial information and time information; and providea current or historical weather-related condition for a geospatialposition in the path based upon the collected weather-relatedinformation from the first and second devices.
 2. The system as in claim1 wherein the central computing device is further operable to: comparethe received passively collected or passively and actively collectedweather-related information from each first or second device within eachgroup to (i) weather-related information received from other first andsecond devices within the same group or associated with substantiallythe same geospatial information in real-time, or (ii) to historicalweather-related information to determine the reliability of the receivedinformation.
 3. The system as in claim 2 wherein the central computingdevice is further operable to provide the current or historicalweather-related information to the devices that are a part of the one ormore configurable, micro-climate collection groups or to devices thatnot a part of the one or more configurable, micro-climate collectiongroups.
 4. The system as in claim 2 wherein the current and historicalweather information comprise forecasts, and the one or more computingdevices are further operable to provide the forecasts to anauthenticated individual.
 5. The system as in claim 2 wherein thecentral computing device is further operable to: receive the geospatialinformation from paired first and second devices and one or moreunpaired devices, and form or re-form a configurable, micro-climatecollection group of paired and unpaired devices, wherein each member ofthe group has a same or substantially the same, geospatial information,and remove a paired or unpaired device from an existing configurable,micro-climate collection group upon determining that the device hasgeo-spatial information that is substantially different from thegeo-spatial information of the other members of the existing group. 6.The system as in claim 5 wherein the geo-spatial information comprises avariable size of a geographical area, elevation and topology.
 7. Thesystem as in claim 6 wherein the central computing device is furtheroperable to form or re-form the configurable, micro-climate collectiongroup comprising a minimum or maximum number of paired and unpaireddevices that currently are associated with the same or substantially thesame received, geospatial information.
 8. The system as in claim 1wherein one or more of the first devices comprises an umbrella.
 9. Thesystem as in claim 1 wherein one or more of second devices comprises asmartphone, personal digital assistant, wireless phone, laptop, tablet,or other mobile computing device.